Traditional Japanese house, Circular window

Although being a renowned component of traditional architecture, the round windows of the Japanese houses are quite rarely encountered. Called marumado or yoshinomado, they are most often used for ventilation and to provide a beautiful view, usually towards the garden.

In some cases, as in today's photo, taken at the former Hosokawa Residence, in Kumamoto, the marumado is covered with Japanese paper, letting only the light pass. Regardless of their usage, the Japanese circular windows are a subtle design element, breaking of the monotony of straight lines and angles and creating a friendlier, more welcoming space...